Bradford Schools

Term-Time Child/Children Absence Request Form

Requesting Leave During Term Time – What You Need to Know

We understand that families may sometimes need to request time off during the school term. However, schools can only approve leave in exceptional circumstances. This form helps us understand your request and make a decision based on your child’s best interests. The headteacher will consider your request and let you know the outcome.

If the leave is not approved and your child is still taken out of school, the absence will be recorded as unauthorised. This could lead to a penalty notice. The fine is £80 per parent, per child, rising to £160 if the penalty notice remains unpaid after 21 days. If a parent receives two fines for the same child within three years, there is no option to pay at the discounted rate, the fine will be £160 per parent, per child. If a parent receives two fines for the same child within three years, further fines will not be issued, and legal action such as a parenting order or prosecution may be considered.

If a child is taken out of school for 20 or more school days without permission, Bradford Council may choose to prosecute parents directly through the magistrates’ court, without first issuing a penalty notice. If found guilty, parents could face a fine of up to £2,500 per child, per parent, a criminal record, and in rare cases, a custodial sentence of up to 3 months. These serious consequences reflect the importance of regular school attendance for your child’s education and wellbeing.

Why School Attendance Matters

Going to school every day helps your child learn, grow, and succeed. Each day builds on the last, and missing even a few lessons can make it harder for your child to keep up. School is not just about learning subjects like maths and English – it also helps children develop social skills, confidence, and routines that prepare them for life. Regular attendance supports good mental health, builds friendships, and helps children feel part of their school community. When children miss school often, they can fall behind in their learning and find it harder to catch up, which may affect their future education and opportunities.

Applying

If you still wish to apply for your child to be absent from school, please complete this form and submit it at least two weeks before the first day of leave unless there is a specific reason why the request is submitted at short notice.

Each period of term-time request must be submitted separately
You must enter ALL the parents details first
You then must enter details for each individual Child
You must detail the reason for the request

On completion of this form you will receive one or more email(s) containing all details that you have submitted for each school selected.

Please enter the Lead Parent name and email address, this contact will be responsible for all contact with and from the relevant School regarding this request.

Lead Parent First Name*

Lead Parent Last Name*

Email address*

Confirm email address*

Please note: If your request is for children at more than one school in the Bradford District, we may need to share the information with each school you're applying to for term-time absence.

BMDC

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